Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
25% cheaper
Detroit is 25% more affordable than Burlington. A $75,000 salary in Burlington is equivalent to $56,568 in Detroit.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Vermont salaries · Michigan salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Burlington has a housing index of 139 while Detroit sits at 60 (national average = 100). The median home in Burlington costs $380,000 compared to $65,000 in Detroit, a difference of $315,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,800 in Burlington versus $1,000 in Detroit.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Burlington scores 108 while Detroit scores 98.
Healthcare costs in Burlington (116) are higher than Detroit (99).
Median household income in Burlington is $51,098 compared to $34,762 in Detroit. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Detroit.
Amazon affiliate links